State Department told to craft sports diplomacy strategy through 2034

What does this do?

The bill directs the State Department to create a strategy for using major sporting events hosted in the U.S. between 2024 and 2034—including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2028 Summer Olympics, and 2034 Winter Olympics—as tools for diplomacy and international relations. It requires two five-year strategy documents covering partnerships with host cities, athletes, businesses, and human rights groups, plus faster visa processing, and renames a State Department office as the "Office of Sports Diplomacy."

Who does it affect?

The State Department, its renamed Office of Sports Diplomacy, and host cities, athletes, sports organizations, and international visitors are affected.

Why does it matter?

The strategy could speed up visa processing for athletes and visitors and create more coordinated cultural programming, while adding new planning and staffing responsibilities to the State Department.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• At least 3 new staff added
• Assigned through 2034
• Affects State Dept budget